Clamp on graffiti

By Jim Mynard
GRAFFITI vandals will face jail if they persist in messing up community property.
Casey mayor Kevin Bradford said he welcomed State Government proposals that included heavier fines and jail terms for vandals.
He said Casey Council was the nation’s local government leader in stamping out graffiti so he took it as good news to hear the Government responding to calls to tackle the problem.
He said the new laws would promote the zero tolerance of graffiti across Victoria.
“Penalties for those caught carrying spray cans without a lawful excuse will do much to complement the council’s local law banning the sale of aerosol spray cans to young people,” he said.
Cr Bradford highlighted the benefits of the zero tolerance policy on graffiti in a keynote presentation at the Municipal Association of Victoria’s local government graffiti forum.
He called on the state and transport, energy and water utilities to take on the same message of zero tolerance that has underpinned Casey’s success since the adoption of its graffiti management program in 2002.
Cardinia Shire councillors have also praised Casey’s efforts and are looking to introduce similarly tough measures in Pakenham and other local towns.
“Casey’s efforts show that removing the publicity, exposure and recognition that graffiti vandals crave for their work, has a dramatic and positive effect on the community,” Cr Bradford said.
“When we remove the purpose of graffiti we send a powerful message.
“This is backed by local law prohibiting the sale of aerosols to anyone under the age of 18, and supported by an education program delivered to every year five and year eight student in Casey.
“Zero tolerance has shown there has been a substantial decrease in the amount of graffiti in the municipality in the same area after it was cleared.
“It has also resulted in a reduction of costs to the council, a significant improvement in the appearance of our public areas and an improvement in people’s perception of safety in public places.”
Casey’s program involves eradication, enforcement and education.